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New Research Looks At Concussion, PTSD Link

On behalf of Ed Chacker of Gay Chacker & Mittin, P.C. posted in injuries on Thursday, October 6, 2016.

A new study suggests that the long-term effects of brain injuries, including concussions, are worse than previously thought. The research shows that getting a concussion may leave individuals twice as likely to develop PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Concussion Linked to PTSD in Vets

This study, which looked at vets who served in Iraq or Afghanistan, confirms what many medical researchers suspected for a long time-that traumatic brain injuries and the development of PTSD are connected. Scientists believe the brain injury affects the brain’s pathways for responding to a scary event. Whereas a normal brain may be able to process the event, an injured brain cannot accurately process the information.

While the study was specific to a military context, its findings can be applied to individuals who get concussions for other reasons. So, if you got a concussion from playing football, slipping on a ladder, or hitting your head on the steering wheel in an auto accident, you could be at risk for brain trauma and PTSD related to your injury.

What to Do After a Brain Injury

As this new research shows brain injuries are more traumatic than many people realize. If you or a loved one suffers a brain injury, promptly seek medical attention and keep a diary of your symptoms every day. If the injury is due to negligence on the part of another, you may have a valid legal claim. A personal injury lawyer can review your circumstances for legal merit.

If you decide to move forward with a case, you may secure damages. Funds from a successful lawsuit can provided you or your loved one with the care necessary to get well, along with resources that can help caregivers who are struggling to support a loved one in recovery from a traumatic brain injury.

Gay & Chacker serves clients in Greater Philadelphia and southern New Jersey. We offer legal representation in Philadelphia County, Montgomery County, Delaware County, Bucks County, Berks County and Chester County, Pennsylvania; and in Camden County, New Jersey, as well as in the surrounding areas.